Bourton-on-the-Water - The Slaughters

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Referred to as the Venice of the Cotswolds, Bourton-on-the-Water sits on the River Windrush, enhanced by its presence and character. Visitors to the village relax and take refreshment beside the waterside tea shops, cafes and restaurants and walk over the fine old stone footbridges that cross the river at various points. The village of Lower Slaughter is but a short distance and although very small, presents a big impact to the sightseer, its beautiful character and Cotswold stone construction, unforgettable.

Upper Slaughter has another wonderful setting, with a cluster of stone dwellings and a pretty church that is open to visitors; a photographer’s paradise. The countryside is marvellous, natural and unspoilt, a pleasure to behold. The bustling centre of Bourton-on-the Water is approached on the return journey along a lengthy street with attractive residences on one side and the River Windrush on the other. The little shops and stores are delightfully varied, selling quality goods to tourists all the year round, one of the many attractions that continually draw visitors to this quiet, restful setting.

Walked the route on the day following a day's rain fall. Surprisingly most of the ground under foot was pretty good. So a good walk for keeping the mud off your boots!
The walk out of Bourton on the Water was urban and then the walk follows a fenced in track - none of this was particularly interesting although the stables and horses en route would be of note for horse fans. The best views are on 1 stretch of the walk. These are across the valley down to the Slaughters.

06/05/2012 - JOHN BATCHELDER

Parked in a side road as I entered Bourton (so saved on the parking fee)
A lovely walk which is very dog friendly, with no tricky stiles to get over or cow fields to get through.

04/12/2011 - Melvin Cammack

04/12/11 Delightful little walk that comes in a bit less than 6.2 miles (more like 5.5 miles). Update - parking charges in station road have increased dramatically from those advised, it's currently £3.70 for 3 hours and £5.50 for 5 hours.